Posted in Uncategorized

A Little Scare, a Little Prayer, and a Whole Lot of Gratitude

Good Friday Morning 🌸

My Friday began bright and early, well, early anyway. There wasn’t anything bright about the sky yet! But the moon was huge, like an illusion where it was touching the trees, bright and glow beautiful for sure.

I have a 7 AM MRI appointment about 35–40 minutes from home, so I gave myself plenty of time. At 6:15 AM, while driving through Lake Mary, my front wheels had just reached a standard railroad crossing when the red lights started flashing and the train warning sounded.

Let me tell you ….that scared the daylights out of me, and daylight hadn’t even arrived yet!

If I wasn’t fully awake before that moment, I certainly was afterward. My heart got a little exercise I had absolutely no intention of putting on today’s schedule.

Everything looks different in the dark, especially when you’re driving through an unfamiliar area. Once I arrived safely at my appointment, I took a moment to pray.

“Thank You, Lord, for getting me here safely.”

and can you please do something about the little insects called no-see-ums it seems to like to fly in the dark and attack me on the way to the car no matter where I am located lol a.k.a. biting midges Florida….

Then I really thought about what I was thankful for: those flashing red lights, that startling warning, and the safety systems doing exactly what they were meant to do. They certainly got my attention. I wasn’t trying to cross on a red flashing light, but it’s like when somebody is playing a game show and you suddenly win in the lights go off and on exciting exhilarating and scary all at the same time..

Sometimes gratitude comes easily. Other times, it arrives at 6:15 in the morning with flashing lights and a very loud announcement!

This morning reminded me how much I have to thank God for, even before the sun comes up. A safe arrival. Another day. A moment to catch my breath and recognize His goodness in the middle of an ordinary and briefly startling, Friday morning.

So today, I’m choosing gratitude. I’m thankful I made it safely across, thankful for the people who help keep our roads and crossings safe, and thankful that God welcomes a prayer whether it’s beautifully worded or simply, “Oh, Lord, thank You!”

And yes, I’m also very thankful it’s Friday.

May your day hold more peace than surprises, may your weekend be beautiful, and may you find a reason to thank God somewhere along the way.

Have a blessed Friday and a beautiful weekend.

Peace.☮️

Deb

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Posted in Faith

Embracing the Beauty of Early Mornings: A Reflection on Gratitude and Productivity

In the quiet moments before the world awakens, there is a serene beauty that envelopes the earth. Waking up before the sunrise allows us to witness the magical transition from darkness to light, a daily reminder of the beauty and wonder that surrounds us. The symphony of birds chirping in the crisp morning air heralds a new day, filling our hearts with joy and hope.

As we embrace the early hours, we have the opportunity to set the tone for our day ahead. By starting our day before the hustle and bustle begins, we create space for reflection, gratitude, and productivity. Watching the sun rise in all its glory is a gentle reminder of the endless possibilities that each day holds. It is a time to appreciate the gift of life and the beauty that God has created for us to enjoy.

Bible Quote:
“Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life.” – Psalm 143:8

Positive Quote for the Day:
“Every morning we are born again. What we do today is what matters most.” – Buddha

May each sunrise serve as a reminder to cherish the beauty around us, to be grateful for the gift of a new day, and to approach each moment with a heart full of appreciation and purpose. Let us seize the early hours, make the most of our day, and find joy in the simple yet profound blessings that surround us.

Have a gorgeous day.